At $16,928/yr net price, University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn $73,792/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $39,792/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,928 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $67,712 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $73,792/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$39,792/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 89.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,484 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,458/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,268/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,613/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,123/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,427/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics. | Doctoral | $136,278 | |
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $117,042 | $127,000 |
| Real Estate. | Master | $115,339 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $113,091 | $50,847 |
| Marketing. | Master | $111,992 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $108,649 | |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Master | $107,256 | |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Master | $106,421 | |
| Engineering, General. | Master | $106,421 | $41,000 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Doctoral | $106,421 |
The Risk Factor
89.3% of students at University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
University of Wisconsin-Madison delivers strong financial returns, with graduates earning $73,792 annually against a manageable net price of $16,928 per year. Your investment pays off across multiple programs, particularly in business and economics fields.
Economics majors see the highest returns at $136,278 annually, making it one of the most lucrative programs in the Big Ten. Business and marketing majors also command six-figure salaries above $111,000, while real estate graduates earn $115,339. However, pharmacy students face a significant debt burden of $127,000 despite strong earning potential at $117,042.
The school's 89% graduation rate and 95% retention rate indicate you'll likely finish your degree, reducing the risk of student loan debt without a diploma. Most students graduate with $20,484 in debt, well below national averages for similar earning potential.
Wisconsin residents get strong value from this flagship university's combination of strong academics and reasonable in-state pricing. Out-of-state students face higher costs but still benefit from the strong alumni network throughout the Midwest and beyond.
The school offers limited need-based aid, with only 15% of students receiving assistance, so middle-income families should expect to pay close to the full net price. Merit scholarships exist but competition is intense given the high-caliber student body.
This university works best for students targeting business, economics, or professional programs who can handle the academic rigor. If you're considering lower-earning majors or need substantial financial aid, explore other options with more generous assistance programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Wisconsin-Madison worth the cost compared to other state schools?
Wisconsin-Madison offers strong ROI with graduates earning $73,792 after 10 years while keeping median debt low at $20,484. The net price of $16,928 annually makes it more affordable than many flagship state universities with similar earning outcomes.
Which University of Wisconsin-Madison programs have the best return on investment?
Economics leads with $136,278 in 10-year earnings, followed by pharmacy at $117,042 and real estate at $115,339. Business and marketing programs also perform well, both exceeding $110,000 in median earnings.
What is the average debt for University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates?
Graduates leave with a median debt of $20,484, which is manageable given the school's strong earning outcomes. This debt level is below the national average and reasonable for a flagship research university.
Does University of Wisconsin-Madison provide good financial aid for in-state students?
The average net price of $16,928 suggests decent financial aid for many families, though this varies significantly by income level. Wisconsin residents typically see better aid packages than out-of-state students.